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Exposed Concrete and Natural Light Create a Learning Environment Amid Volcanic Landscapes

Authors:
Franziska Ritter, Claudia Spahr
Exposed Concrete and Natural Light Create a Learning Environment Amid Volcanic Landscapes

Project in-detail

Employing exposed concrete and abundant glazing to harmonize with the volcanic landscape, the museum fosters an immersive educational experience centered on the dynamic forces of geology.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of exposed concrete reflects the geological character of the surrounding volcanic landscape.
02
Large glazed openings enhance daylighting and create a seamless connection between interior and exterior environments.
03
The design incorporates flexible exhibition spaces adaptable for various educational programs.
04
Natural insulation materials are chosen to improve energy efficiency within the building.
05
A thoughtful integration of low-impact landscaping preserves the site’s native flora, enhancing the visitor experience.
The architectural design of the Volcano Museum presents a thoughtful integration of form, function, and context, creating a space that explores the relationship between human curiosity and the geological wonders of volcanoes. This project captures the essence of educational architecture, aimed at providing an engaging environment for visitors to learn about volcanic activity and its implications for our planet.

The museum serves as a crucial resource for both locals and tourists, fulfilling an educational purpose through its exhibitions and community outreach programs. By embracing its natural surroundings, the design references the unique geographical context of its location, allowing the architecture to resonate with the landscape it occupies. The building's square form promotes a sense of stability and permanence, echoing the enduring nature of the geological phenomena it seeks to represent.

One of the key aspects of this architectural project is its selection of materials. The use of exposed concrete as a primary material not only contributes to the structural integrity of the building but also reflects the color palette of the surrounding volcanic terrain. This choice embodies a subtle dialogue between the constructed form and the natural environment, thereby enhancing the visitor experience.

Large glazed windows punctuate the museum’s facade, providing ample natural daylight and connecting interior spaces to the exterior landscape. This design choice not only illuminates the exhibitions but also creates a seamless visual connection with the outer environment, inviting visitors to explore both the indoor exhibits and the surrounding natural beauty. Additionally, wooden slats are employed to soften the concrete surfaces, offering a balance between the raw and the refined. These elements subtly articulate the museum’s themes of nature and humanity.

The interior layout is carefully planned to accommodate a variety of exhibition types, from interactive displays to more traditional educational installations. This flexibility is essential for catering to different audience needs, allowing the museum to host workshops, lectures, and community events alongside its permanent exhibits. The spatial organization encourages movement and interaction among visitors, promoting a dialogue that aligns with the educational mission of the museum.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project. The careful orientation of the building takes advantage of the site's natural topography, ensuring that visitors can appreciate the geological features that inspired the museum’s creation. Furthermore, the landscape surrounding the museum is integrated into the overall design, featuring low-impact landscaping that preserves the native flora and enhances the visitor's experience of the site. The design promotes sustainability through its integration with the site’s natural characteristics, a critical consideration in modern architectural practice.

Night-time illumination of the museum further extends the experience beyond daylight hours. The architectural design incorporates lighting that highlights key elements of the building, creating an inviting atmosphere that draws visitors in while maintaining a sense of architectural integrity. Such attention to detail ensures that the museum remains an active part of the community, both day and night.

By thoughtfully considering each aspect of the project—from material selection to spatial organization—this architectural design achieves a cohesive vision that respects both the educational purpose of the museum and its surrounding environment. It represents a contemporary understanding of how architecture can serve not only as a vessel for information but also as a beacon for community engagement. The Volcano Museum stands as a powerful reminder of the forces that shape our Earth, inviting exploration and ongoing discourse around the significance of volcanoes in our world.

For those interested in further exploring this innovative project, including the architectural plans, sections, designs, and underlying ideas, I encourage you to delve deeper into the project presentation. A closer look will reveal the intricacies of this architectural endeavor, providing a comprehensive understanding of its themes and design strategies.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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